'Don't Be a Bystander' is counseling center's objective

Published 10:57 am, Tuesday, April 1, 2014

Sexual Assault Awareness Month will kick off at noon Wednesday, April 2, at Norwalk City Hall.

At the event sponsored by the Center for Sexual Assault Crisis Counseling and Education, several officials will proclaim April to be Sexual Assault Awareness Month. The proclamations issued by Darien, Greenwich, New Canaan, Stamford, Norwalk, Westport, Weston and Wilton urge citizens of lower Fairfield County to support the efforts of the center and to educate themselves on the issue of sexual assault.

The center has adopted "Don't Be a Bystander" as its theme for April.

Norwalk Mayor Harry Rilling will begin the event and will be followed by the center's executive director, Ivonne Zucco, and Children's Connection Director Kari Pesavento. Each will share their thoughts and perspectives on the issue of sexual assault and on the role the center plays in the community.

Celebrating its 35th year of serving lower Fairfield County, the center provides free, 24-hour confidential support to women, men and children who have experienced sexual assault. Additionally, it provides age-appropriate personal safety classes for children ages 5 to 18 to reduce their risk of becoming a victim and education/awareness programs for the community at large. The center provides services to Darien, Greenwich, New Canaan, Norwalk, Stamford, Weston, Westport, and Wilton.